1998 Ford Libre vs. 1978 Renault 12
To start off, 1998 Ford Libre is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Libre (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1978 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Libre should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Libre weights approximately 398 kg more than 1978 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1998 Ford Libre (112 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Libre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Libre | 1978 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Libre | 12 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 112 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 900 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2440 mm |
